Construction is an industry that creates and builds things. It includes the building of buildings, industrial facilities and infrastructure. It also covers repairs, maintenance and work to expand or improve existing assets.
Many people find meaning in their careers through a sense of purpose and the feeling that they are making a difference in the world. EAS Construction provides a range of opportunities for these types of employees.
1. Earning Potential
When deciding on a career, people often consider the average salary for the type of work they want to do. This information can help them set realistic expectations and financial goals for their future. However, average figures aren’t the whole story. There are many factors that influence average construction worker salaries, including specialized skillsets, education, union status, and location.
Construction is the act of assembling or building infrastructure, usually following a set of blueprints. The term can refer to a variety of projects, from housing to schools to skyscrapers and other commercial buildings. It can also include the process of assembling or building transportation infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, dams, and highways. Finally, it can also be used to describe the building or assembling of industrial facilities for manufacturing or research purposes.
As a result, there are many opportunities for construction workers to earn a good income. With a high school diploma or equivalent and some vocational training, many aspiring construction workers can start out earning a decent wage. However, for those who want to maximize their earning potential, it’s important to continue training and learning new skills. This can lead to higher earnings and improved job security.
Another factor that influences earnings is the type of project a construction worker is working on. For example, a construction worker who is working on a large commercial building will typically earn more than someone who is working on a residential renovation.
Perhaps the most important factor that influences earning potential is a construction worker’s level of experience. Construction workers who have years of experience tend to earn more than those who are just starting out. This is because more experienced construction workers are able to complete projects more quickly and accurately, which leads to faster project completion and lower overall costs.
2. Flexibility
In an industry where it has been widely believed that maximizing worker hours means efficient project completion, more construction companies need to start looking at giving their teams greater flexibility. Some contractors have already started implementing flexible shift patterns for direct-employed workers during pandemic restrictions and have found that this has not only had no impact on budgets or schedules, but also increased workers’ sense of well-being.
Flexibility isn’t just about allowing employees to work from home, it also means being willing to accommodate individual needs, like childcare, ill health or caring responsibilities. This type of flexibility can help to reduce turnover rates and keep workers in the field longer, saving businesses money on recruitment, training and office space.
Furthermore, being able to travel between projects or even move to different countries is an attractive benefit for many construction workers. Not only does it give them the chance to see more of the world, but they can also feel satisfaction in knowing that they are contributing to roads, schools, homes and hospitals in places they’ve never even visited before.
Construction companies that prioritize flexible working arrangements are seen as more progressive and employee-friendly, which can help to attract a wider pool of talented candidates. People who might have been put off by the long hours and physical demands of the job will be more likely to consider it if they know that they’ll be able to find a good balance with their own personal life. This can make a huge difference to the success of a business, and it’s something that all firms should consider. *Source: Timewise.
3. Work Environment
Construction workers are exposed to a number of different work environments, ranging from the physical workplace to the social dynamics of team interactions. Understanding the factors that shape these work environments is critical, as they play a significant role in employee satisfaction and productivity.
A toxic company culture can contribute to the high rate of burnout among construction workers. This can be a result of long work hours, an inability to communicate with colleagues effectively and other factors such as bullying or hazing. It’s important for companies to develop a strong company culture that supports employees’ mental health and wellbeing, both in the field and in the office.
It’s also important for construction workers to be able to report issues they face at work without fear of retaliation. This includes reporting safety violations to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA). If an employer has a poor record of OSH compliance, it’s crucial that they take action to improve their compliance rate before someone gets hurt on site.
Investigative work environments are often used in science and academia, as they prioritize research and experimentation. They are ideal for individuals who enjoy uncovering new insights and solutions, as they provide an opportunity to use their creativity and analytical skills.
Collaborative work environments are often used in education, health care and social services. These types of settings are designed to provide support, guidance and assistance to people in need, making them ideal for individuals who are empathetic and motivated to make positive changes in the world. In this type of work environment, the focus is on interpersonal communication and a shared approach to problem-solving. It’s also important that construction workers have a solid foundation to build upon – a healthy company culture can be instrumental in achieving goals, fostering innovation and retaining talent.
4. Job Security
Many people look at job security as one of the most important factors when deciding on a career path. Although no industry can guarantee a job for life, some industries are better positioned to weather economic fluctuations than others.
During economic boom periods, construction projects increase and this can lead to increased job stability for workers in the industry. Conversely, during recessions, construction projects slow down and this can lead to layoffs in some sectors of the industry.
A career in the construction trades also offers exceptional benefits like a livable wage and healthcare. Many firms offer health insurance to their employees along with 401(k) or retirement plans, which help workers save for the future. Some firms even offer disability insurance, which can protect employees if they are injured or sick and cannot work.
In addition to providing health insurance, many construction companies also provide other employee benefits including paid vacation days and holidays. This can help ensure that workers have enough time off to rest and recharge, which is important for a healthy work-life balance.
Construction is a highly skilled industry that requires specialized knowledge and training to perform certain tasks. Because of this, it is not as easy to replace skilled craftsmen and women in the field. As a result, it is often possible for experienced workers to negotiate a higher salary than those who have not yet gained the necessary experience.
If you are looking for a stable career with a lot of potential for advancement, construction may be the perfect fit for you. With on-the-job training and apprenticeships available, you can gain the skills you need to build a successful career in construction without spending too much money on an expensive education.
5. Opportunities for Advancement
Whether you have an eye for management or just want to work as part of a team, the construction industry offers plenty of opportunities for career advancement. It is possible to start as a junior manager and move up the ranks, especially if your company is growing.
One way to grow in the industry is through continuing education and training. Many people begin their careers through an apprenticeship, which is a great opportunity to gain on-the-job experience and develop the necessary skills. After completion, they become certified and can advance to the position of journeyperson.
Another way to grow in the industry is through networking. There are many ways to network, including joining an industry association like AIC and seeking out leadership opportunities. These are great opportunities to learn more about the field, meet other professionals, and build a reputation for yourself in the construction community.
Construction is an incredibly collaborative industry. In order to complete projects on time and within budget, it is essential for teams to communicate effectively and prioritize each other’s success. This kind of teamwork is an excellent way to demonstrate your ability to manage a project and also shows that you are a good fit for leadership roles.
Lastly, it’s important to always be open to new technology and methods. Companies that embrace innovation are more agile and able to adapt quickly to changing conditions. Moreover, cutting-edge tech is a lot safer than traditional methods and can help prevent injuries.
Taking the right steps to progress in your construction career can lead to long-term happiness and success. If you are not happy at your current company, it may be time to consider looking for a different role with another firm that can offer the career advancement you need.